Things To Do
in Toliara
Toliara is a coastal city located in the southwestern region of Madagascar known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The city is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the diverse marine life in the area through activities such as snorkeling and diving. Toliara is also known for its bustling markets where visitors can find local crafts and traditional Malagasy goods.
The city's warm climate and laid-back atmosphere make it a relaxing getaway for those looking to experience the unique culture of Madagascar.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the vibrant local markets. Discover traditional crafts and sample local street food.
Visit the Arboretum d'Antsokay to see unique plant species. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about Madagascar's biodiversity.
Dine at a local restaurant and try Zebu steak. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with music and entertainment.
Take a boat trip to Nosy Ve Island. Relax on the pristine beaches and snorkel in the clear waters.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island. Explore the surrounding reefs for marine life.
Return to Toliara for a sunset walk along the coast. Grab dinner at a beachfront restaurant with ocean views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with diverse ecosystems including beaches, coral reefs, and unique wildlife.
- Rich cultural heritage and history influenced by various civilizations.
- Growing ecotourism opportunities and local handicrafts.
- Warm and welcoming local population.
- Ideal climate for outdoor activities year-round.
- Limited infrastructure and services in some areas.
- Economic challenges leading to high poverty rates.
- Potential safety concerns in certain regions.
- Environmental issues such as deforestation and pollution can affect local ecosystems.
- Accessibility can be a challenge due to underdeveloped transportation options.
Best Activities in Toliara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy kite surfing in the beautiful coast of Toliara, known for its strong winds and clear waters.
Explore the diverse marine life by snorkeling in Toliara's pristine waters.
Engage in a fun game of beach volleyball in Toliara's sandy beaches.
Embark on a hiking adventure to discover the unique landscapes and wildlife around Toliara.
Tours
Uncover the best of Toliara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Toliara
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful sandy beach with stunning views of the turquoise sea and traditional fishing boats
Scenic bay offering picturesque views of the coastline and opportunities for birdwatching
Lively street with vibrant colors and bustling markets, offering great photo opportunities of local life
Southernmost tip of Madagascar with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and rugged coastal landscapes
Food in Toliara
Toliara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy stew made with leafy greens, meat, and often served with rice. Found in local restaurants and homes.
Must-Try!
Skewered and grilled zebu meat seasoned with local spices, a popular street food item at Toliara's markets and food stalls.
A term for Malagasy side dishes often featuring vegetables and coconut milk, commonly served with rice or ro ory, a type of pancake.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Toliara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and an array of street food such as samosas, sambos, and mokary.
Avenue lined with street vendors in the evening, where one can relish in diverse offerings like koba (a sweet cake), mofo gasy (street-style snacks), and grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Toliara, it is important to greet people with a handshake and possibly a brief exchange of pleasantries. It is considered respectful to acknowledge others and show interest in their well-being.
In Toliara, elders are highly esteemed, and it is customary to show them respect by using polite language and deferring to their wisdom and experience.
Toliara has cultural taboos known as 'fady' that are important to observe. These may include restrictions on certain foods, behaviors, or places, and it's essential to be aware of and respect these taboos.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Toliara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Toliara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Toliara, Madagascar. While it is not expected, a small tip for exceptional service at upscale restaurants or hotels may be appreciated.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Toliara, Madagascar. Credit cards may be accepted at some hotels and larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Toliara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Toliara is during the summer, when the weather is hot and the sea is warm and inviting. Expect clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine, with occasional rain showers.
During the winter months, Toliara experiences cooler temperatures and dry weather. This is still a good time to visit, especially for hiking and exploring the area, although the sea might be too cold for swimming.
Toliara at Night
Hiking in Toliara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and impressive rock formations. The park offers various trails suitable for different skill levels, including the hike to Pic Boby, the second highest peak in Madagascar.
Famous for its eroded sandstone formations, canyons, and unique flora, Isalo National Park provides a range of hiking opportunities, including loops that take you to natural pools and spectacular viewpoints.
While primarily known for its lemur population, Lemur Island offers scenic walking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the local scenery and wildlife up close.
Located just south of Toliara, the beaches offer picturesque walking and hiking trails along the coast, providing stunning views of the ocean and surrounding areas.
While a bit further from Toliara, this UNESCO World Heritage site features the fascinating limestone karst formations known as 'Tsingy', offering adventurous hiking and breathtaking views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Toliara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Toliara by plane.
The largest international airport in Madagascar, located near Antananarivo, about 850 km from Toliara.
An international airport located on the island of Réunion, approximately 900 km from Toliara.
The main international airport of Mauritius, situated about 1,000 km from Toliara.
Also known as Ivato International Airport, serves as the main gateway for international flights in Madagascar.
An international airport located on Nosy Be Island, approximately 700 km from Toliara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region where Toliara is located, primarily composed of ethnic groups such as the Sakalava and the Antandroy.
One of the main ethnic groups in the region, traditionally involved in fishing, agriculture, and through historical influences, has a distinct cultural identity.
Another prominent ethnic group known for their unique customs and practices, often associated with the semi-arid lands of southern Madagascar.
Refers to the mixed descent Malgache community that has influences from various cultures including African, Arab, and French.
Historically smaller in number, but present in coastal areas, engaged in trade and fishing.
A minority group primarily consisting of French descendants, involved in commerce and local administration.
The Soul of Toliara
Discover the essence of Toliara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Toliara, with many local clubs and a strong following among the community.
Basketball is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with several courts available for play.
Rugby has a dedicated fan base and is played in schools and local leagues, contributing to its growth in the region.
Athletics events, including running and jumping, are popular in schools and local competitions.
Volleyball is commonly played on the beaches and in schools, enjoyed by both men and women.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toliara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditionally meat-heavy, Toliara still offers vegetarian options such as lasary (a salad made with green mango or cabbage), coconut milk-based curries, and various grilled, spiced vegetables.
Rice is a staple in Toliara's diet, and many dishes are naturally gluten-free. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly at restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Toliara with these cultural adventures.
